Elmiron is a medication used to treat bladder pain caused by interstitial cystitis. In recent years, there have been reports of vision problems, including vision loss, among users of the drug. As a result, several lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, alleging that the company failed to warn users about the potential risks to their vision. These lawsuits are collectively referred to as the “Elmiron lawsuit.” Therefore, it’s important to consult an attorney, as you might need to know about the Elmiron lawsuit process and how it can help you going forward.
However, before knowing all the ins and outs of the lawsuit, it’s important to understand the different parties that can be held accountable. Have a look at the following article;
The Manufacturer
Elmiron was and is still widely used to treat bladder-related issues caused by intestinal cystitis. Since the drug was manufactured by a renowned pharmaceutical company, the victims had complete trust in the product. However, the first complaint against the drug was made in 2020, which held Janssen Pharmaceutical responsible. The plaintiffs asserted that the medication had led them to develop eye diseases and vision impairment. They also contend that the company was aware of the risks and intentionally chose to conceal them.
The Distributors
It’s important to understand that all medicines are distributed to pharmacies through middlemen. Mckesson Corporation is one of the biggest medicine distributors in the US. Recently, the plaintiffs have started to sue the company as well. They claim that the company failed to disclose information regarding the side effects of the medicine, just like its manufacturers. As a result, Mckesson is held responsible for the damages.
The Doctors
Doctors are also the ones that patients can sue if they have been prescribed the medicine. Individuals who have taken Elmiron in the past or who are taking it now may be eligible to file a lawsuit on a different basis, such as personal harm, medical misconduct, or as part of a mass tort case. However, the lawyers do not recommend that their clients sue the doctors. The main defense in the Elmiron litigation is that Janssen Pharmaceuticals failed to inform clinicians of the medication’s potential negative effects. Before June 16, 2020, maculopathy was not included as a potential risk on the label of Elmiron. Doctors were, therefore, ignorant of this potential Elmiron side effect, making Janssen the main defendant in the ensuing cases.
The FDA
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for inspecting and introducing safe food products and medicine in the US. Although the organization is immune to any lawsuits regarding the approval of the products, under special circumstances, it can also be held liable. Elmiron was tested and passed by FDA, which makes them responsible along with the manufacturers and distributors. However, it’s advisable to hire a team of attorneys before suing the FDA, as it can prove to be a challenge even for seasoned lawyers.
If you suspect that using Elmiron may have caused visual issues, you should get a diagnosis from a physician. You can use a medical examination to determine whether you ought to sue Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Medical records would also be a crucial piece of evidence if you wished to claim compensation. Elmiron-induced eye damage is occasionally confused with age-related macular degeneration. Be sure to tell your doctor that you were exposed to Elmiron if you are experiencing vision issues so they can properly diagnose you.